Interlaken is a hiker’s paradise, thanks to its proximity to the Swiss Alps and an abundance of trails that cater to all fitness levels and interests. Whether you’re aiming for a challenging summit, a peaceful snowshoe walk, or a scenic mountain picnic, Interlaken’s terrain offers it all. One standout experience is the guided Hike to Harder Kulm with a Swiss triathlete, where a seasoned athlete shares his insider knowledge while reaching the region’s most iconic lookout point. It’s the perfect blend of challenge and personal connection that makes this tour memorable.
If winter’s your season, the Wetterhorn Trail Snowshoe Hiking Tour offers impressive views without the need for skiing skills. For a more personalized experience, the Guided Hike in Kandersteg with a Swiss triathlete takes you into the UNESCO-listed landscape with a guide who customizes the trek to your pace. And for those wanting a full-day adventure, the Grindelwald First & Bachalpsee Private Tour combines mountain lakes, alpine scenery, and scenic rail rides.
Whatever your interest, hiking in Interlaken offers a mix of thrilling ascents, gentle walks, and awe-inspiring views. Below, we break down each tour to help you choose the perfect match for your trip.
1. Interlaken: Guided Hike to Harder Kulm with Swiss Triathlete
At number one, this guided hike to Harder Kulm is an excellent choice for those who want a personalized, authentic alpine experience. Led by Nicolas, a Swiss triathlete with years of mountain guiding experience, this 5-hour trek offers a tailored adventure either challenging or relaxed, depending on your preference. The tour begins at Jugendherberge Interlaken, ascending to 1,321 meters at Harder Kulm, iconic for its panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
What makes this tour stand out is Nicolas’ ability to adapt the pace and focus, sharing his deep knowledge of the Swiss Alps along the way. Reviews praise his enthusiasm and communication skills—”Nicolas went above and beyond” and “Thoroughly enjoyed our hike.” It’s perfect for travelers seeking a private guide who makes the experience personal and engaging. The rugged ascent rewards you with spectacular scenery and the chance to learn about the mountain environment from someone who genuinely loves sharing it.
Bottom Line: The Harder Kulm hike with Nicolas offers a flexible, intimate experience that combines physical challenge with authentic Swiss hospitality.
2. From Interlaken: Wetterhorn Trail Snowshoe Hiking Tour
Number two on our list is the Wetterhorn Trail Snowshoe Hiking Tour, which is ideal for winter visitors wanting to explore the Alps without skis. This 4-hour route from Grindelwald is accessible for non-skiers, offering impressive views of the Grindelwald Glacier and Schwarzhorn. Snowshoes make traversing snow-covered meadows and forests easier, and the trail’s gentle to moderate difficulty level makes it suitable for most fitness levels.
What sets this tour apart is the scenery: the trail provides a clear view of the north face of the Eiger, one of the most famous mountain faces in the world. Along the way, you visit the Alpine Bird Park and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The tour is well-rated at 4.6/5, with reviews noting the stunning vistas and the unique winter experience. It’s a great choice for those who want a relaxed but scenic winter walk with a small group.
Bottom Line: This snowshoe tour offers breathtaking views and an easy winter adventure, perfect for non-skiers wanting a taste of the Swiss Alps in winter.
3. Kandersteg: Guided Hike with a Swiss Triathlete
Number three takes you to Kandersteg, where a guided hike with a Swiss triathlete promises a richly personalized adventure. This 6-hour trek is led by Nicolas, who shares his expertise from combining athletic endurance with mountain guiding. Starting in the charming village of Kandersteg, the hike explores the surrounding UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
What makes this tour unique is Nicolas’ ability to tailor the pace and route to your preferences. Whether you want a vigorous ascent or a leisurely stroll, he adjusts accordingly, sharing insights about local flora, fauna, and mountaineering history. Reviews are glowing, highlighting the private, customized experience—“I ended up having a private guided hiking,” and “He shared local Swiss particularities along the way.” Wild highlights include views of waterfalls, mountain lakes, and maybe even ibex if your timing is right.
Bottom Line: For an intimate, flexible trek led by a passionate guide, this Kandersteg hike delivers an authentic Swiss experience with personalized attention.
4. Bern: Grindelwald First & Bachalpsee Hiking Private Tour
Number four is the private tour of Grindelwald First and Bachalpsee, perfect for those wanting a full-day, picture-perfect adventure. Starting from Bern, the 8-hour tour includes a scenic train ride, a cable car ascent, and guided exploration of the region’s highlights. The highlight is reaching the stunning Bachalpsee, a mountain lake that’s a favorite for its mirror-like reflections of peaks.
This tour combines transportation logistics with walking through lush alpine meadows and rocky ridges. The guided component enhances the experience, with insights into the mountaineer heritage and the region’s natural features. The tour’s price reflects its comprehensive scope, and you get to enjoy scenic rail trails alongside panoramic views. Walkers who love lakes and mountain scenery will find it worthwhile, though it’s quite a long day.
Bottom Line: The Grindelwald First & Bachalpsee private tour offers a full immersion into Swiss mountain scenery with the convenience of guided logistics.
$790 per person
5. Day Hike to Augstmatthorn with Transfer from Interlaken
Number five takes you to Augstmatthorn, a standout for those craving panoramic mountain views. This day hike with transfer from Interlaken involves a 4-hour ascent to the summit, where you’ll look out over Lake Brienz, Interlaken, and the surrounding peaks of Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger. Transport is included, making it easier to reach the trailhead.
The hike is moderate, with opportunities to spot marmots and ibex along the way. The route offers stunning vistas of deep turquoise waters and snow-capped summits. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided small-group experience with a focus on wildlife and scenery. Reviewers mention the stunning views as a major highlight, with one noting “High chance to spot wild marmots and ibex.”
Bottom Line: This guided day hike offers incredible mountain views and wildlife spotting, suitable for active travelers seeking a manageable challenge.
$264 per person
6. Interlaken: Hike to an Alpine Lake and a Cozy Mountain Hut
Number six offers a more relaxed and scenic outing. The hike to a mountain lake and mountain hut is perfect for those who want an immersive nature experience with a Swiss picnic. Over about 6.5 hours, you’ll walk through peaceful alpine meadows, culminating at Suls Lake—an ideal spot for a picnic with Swiss delicacies.
After your lakeside break, the trail continues to a traditional mountain hut where you can enjoy a refreshing drink and look out over spectacular peaks and glaciers. This tour is highly rated at 4.9/5, praised for its less crowded trails and stunning scenery. It’s well-suited for families or travelers seeking a scenic, relaxing day outdoors.
Bottom Line: This leisurely hike combines mountain lakes, local food, and mountain hut ambiance for a charming half-day outing.
7. Interlaken: Rosenlaui Hike with Gorge & Alpine Hut Visit
Number seven explores Rosenlaui Gorge, a highlight for lovers of wild landscapes. The Rosenlaui Gorge hike is a 5-hour walk through towering cliffs, waterfalls, and striking streams. The tour includes entry to the gorge and a stop at the Engelhorn Hut, where a snack and drink await.
What distinguishes this tour is the combination of dramatic geology and lush scenery. The route is accessible but packed with visual drama—perfect for nature lovers and photographers. The included gorge visit makes it stand out from more standard mountain hikes. The tour’s price reflects the full experience, with a focus on natural spectacle and authentic Swiss mountain charm.
Bottom Line: Rosenlaui Gorge offers a scenic, geology-rich experience suitable for travelers craving dramatic landscapes paired with mountain hut comfort.
$277 per person
8. Sunrise Hike to Augstmatthorn with Breakfast on the Peak
The final entry is the Sunrise Hike to Augstmatthorn, perfect for early risers wanting a magical start to their day. This 6-hour trek begins before dawn, culminating with breakfast atop the mountain as the sun rises over the Swiss Alps. Starting from Interlaken, the hike takes you up to Augstmatthorn, providing a stunning backdrop of the landscape lit by the first light.
The tour is ideal for those who love sunrise views and breakfast with a view. The quiet early morning offers a peaceful, almost meditative experience, and the scenic vistas are unmatched at dawn. It’s suited for active travelers comfortable with an early start and who want a memorable, awe-inspiring experience.
Bottom Line: For a breathtaking start to your day, this sunrise hike with breakfast combines physical activity and spectacular scenery in a unique way.
$264 per person
How to Choose the Best Hiking or Trekking Tour in Interlaken
When selecting a tour, consider your fitness level, interests, and how much time you want to dedicate. For a personalized experience, the guided hike to Harder Kulm offers flexibility and local expertise. If winter scenery excites you, the snowshoe trip delivers impressive views without the need for skiing skills. For a full-day adventure with diverse scenery, the private Grindelwald trip is a great choice. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer shorter or less private options, while those craving early mornings and sunrise views should consider the breakfast hike.
Booking early increases your chances for the best times, especially in peak seasons like summer or winter holidays. Also, check availability and weather conditions—some tours are more enjoyable in certain seasons.
Final thoughts
Interlaken offers a wide range of hiking and trekking options, from challenging summit hikes to gentle scenic walks. For those seeking the thrill of reaching iconic viewpoints, the Harder Kulm guided hike is a standout, especially with Nicolas’ engaging guidance. Snowshoe enthusiasts will love the Wetterhorn trail, while nature lovers might prefer the Rosenlaui Gorge adventure.
No matter your choice, booking early and choosing a trip that matches your fitness and curiosity levels will ensure a memorable Swiss hiking experience. Remember, the Swiss Alps are waiting—grab your gear and get ready for some truly spectacular views.